W. L. Weller 107 Bourbon

The Weller line of wheated bourbons are extremely popular these days, thanks in part to their close relation to the infamous Van Winkle family of bourbons. Bourbon is mandated by law to be at least 51% corn in the mash bill. Rye grain is the most common secondary ingredient in most bourbons, for flavoring. But Weller and the Van Winkles are examples of “wheatears”, where wheat is used as the main flavoring component. This tends to bring in a softer, creamier sweetness and fruitiness, compared to the “spicier” rye flavors. Old Weller Antique (OWA) is essentially the same thing as their entry-level Special Reserve – except that it is bottled at a higher proof (107, or 53.5% ABV). Both of these bourbons used to carry an age statement – they no longer do, but they are still believed to be ~6-7 years old. OWA is not quite as widely available as Special Reserve, but it is not as hard to find as the rest of the line.

Nose

Sweet, like vanilla icing on a caramel cake. Light honey with hints of marzipan and whipped cream. Cherry. A bit of nutmeg.

Palate

Caramel comes first, followed by an extreme honey sweetness, which then fades back to that caramel after a few seconds. Fruits come next, mainly dark berries and some prunes and plums. Oak is in the background here. Has a silky texture.